Service in the armed forces is full of specific slang and jargon that are often incomprehensible to civilians. One of these terms that raises many questions is the word “Gorynych”. In military usage, this name is assigned to powerful fire weapons capable of inflicting large-scale defeats on the enemy.
Most often, this name refers to a multiple launch rocket system (MLRS), although in some contexts other types of weapons associated with fire or smoke may also be called this name. Understanding that what is Gorynych in the army, is necessary not only for general development, but also for understanding the tactical capabilities of modern troops.
This term has firmly entered the lexicon of both professional military personnel and those who follow news from special operations zones. The origin of the name is directly related to the folklore character - the Serpent Gorynych, who is known for his fiery breath. It was this association that became key in assigning a nickname to military equipment.
Origin of the army nickname
The name “Gorynych” did not arise out of nowhere, but was the result of folk art and imaginative thinking of military personnel. The Serpent Gorynych in fairy tales is a monster that spews flame and destroys everything in its path. A similar effect is produced by multiple launch rocket systems, which in a matter of seconds turn a section of terrain into scorched earth.
Soldiers often give equipment “human” or mythical names to make it easier to identify it on air and in everyday life. MLRS (multiple launch rocket system) has a characteristic launch sound and visual effect of plumes, which strengthens the association with the dragon. Artillery slang is rich in similar examples, where formidable weapons are endowed with living features.
It is important to note that the term can be applied to various modifications of installations, from old Soviet models to the latest developments. The main thing that unites them in the minds of fighters is the ability to “breathe fire” over long distances. This imagery helps to quickly convey information about the type of threat or weapon used.
Specifications and capabilities
When it comes to “Gorynych” as a specific type of weapon, most often we mean systems like BM-21 "Grad" or their more modern analogues. These installations are capable of firing unguided rockets of 122 mm caliber or more. The firing range can vary from 20 to 40 or more kilometers, depending on the modification of the projectile.
The main strength of such weapons lies in volley fire. The vehicle can release all its ammunition in a matter of seconds, creating a complete destruction zone on the ground. Fragment scattering area and the shock wave make it impossible for enemy personnel to be located at the epicenter of the strike. This makes Gorynych an ideal weapon for suppressing manpower and lightly armored vehicles.
Modern modifications are equipped with automatic guidance and satellite navigation systems, which significantly increases accuracy. If previously a lengthy sighting was required, now the target coordinates can be entered into a computerized fire control complex in minutes. This reduces reaction time and increases the efficiency of artillery units.
| Parameter | Classic "Grad" | Modern analogue | Improved version |
|---|---|---|---|
| Projectile caliber | 122 mm | 122 mm | 122-300 mm |
| Number of guides | 40 pieces | 40 pieces | 20-80 pieces |
| Firing range | up to 20 km | up to 40 km | up to 90 km |
| Full salvo time | 20 seconds | 10-15 seconds | less than 10 seconds |
Tactics of use in combat conditions
The use of Gorynych requires strict adherence to tactical doctrines, since it is a weapon of mass destruction on the battlefield. The main task of such systems is to deliver a sudden and powerful blow to enemy concentrations of manpower, artillery batteries or communications centers. Volley fire demoralizes the enemy and deprives him of the opportunity to organize a response.
The “shoot and scoot” tactic is often used. After firing missiles, the installation must immediately change position to avoid a retaliatory strike from enemy artillery or aircraft. The time it takes to deploy and collapse the system plays a critical role in the survivability of the crew and the vehicle.
☑️ Crew actions after the salvo
In modern conflicts, Gorynych is often used to create smoke screens or mine areas with special ammunition. This allows you to block escape routes or, conversely, block the advance of advancing forces. The versatility of the ammunition makes this system indispensable in the commander's arsenal.
⚠️ Attention: The use of multiple launch rocket systems requires high qualifications, since the fragmentation area is large, and there is a risk of defeating friendly troops due to errors in calculations.
Types of ammunition for the system
The effectiveness of Gorynych directly depends on the type of ammunition used. Standard high-explosive fragmentation shells are designed to destroy manpower and equipment in open areas. However, the arsenal may also include specialized types of missiles that expand tactical capabilities.
There are shells with a cassette part, which, when approaching a target, open up and scatter many small destructive elements. Incendiary ammunition is also used to cause extensive fires, and smoke charges are used to mask the actions of other units. Ammunition type is selected based on a specific combat mission.
Features of cluster munitions
Cluster shells allow you to (cover) a significantly larger area compared to monoblock shells. However, their use is regulated by international conventions in a number of countries, which must be taken into account when planning operations.
The latest developments include projectiles with flight path correction, which brings the accuracy of MLRS closer to artillery guns. This allows you to hit targeted targets, such as individual buildings or fortifications, with minimal risk of collateral damage to civilian objects.
Features of maintenance and operation
The operation of complex military equipment, such as Gorynych, requires constant maintenance. Guidance mechanisms, launch tubes and chassis experience enormous loads when firing. Regular lubrication, checking electrical circuits and hydraulics are a mandatory part of an artilleryman’s service.
Particular attention is paid to storing ammunition. Projectile jet engines are sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity. Improper storage conditions may result in engine failure or changes in ballistics, making shooting ineffective or dangerous.
The installation designer must have the skills to quickly replace failed components in the field. The presence of spare parts and tools in the maintenance vehicle allows the Gorynych to be quickly returned to service. Technical serviceability - the key to the success of a combat mission.
When operating in winter, pay special attention to warming up the hydraulic system before starting work to avoid rupture of hoses and loss of pressure.
Psychological impact on the enemy
The psychological aspect of using Gorynych should not be underestimated. The sound of flying missiles, often described as a whine or whistle, evokes instinctive fear in those under fire. The inability to shelter from a hail of shrapnel creates a feeling of defenselessness.
The massive use of such systems at the beginning of an offensive or when repelling attacks makes it possible to disorganize the command and control of enemy troops. Commanders lose contact with units, soldiers hide, unable to conduct targeted fire. This opens up opportunities for action by other branches of the military.
In the information space, the image of “Gorynych” is also used as a symbol of the power and inevitability of the blow. Reports of the use of these weapons often cause resonance and affect the morale of the parties to the conflict. Information war goes in parallel with the fighting.
⚠️ Attention: Psychological pressure can only be effective when combined with real combat operations of infantry and tanks, otherwise the enemy may regain control.
Prospects for the development of rocket artillery
Military science does not stand still, and “Gorynych” continues to evolve. The main directions of development are increasing the firing range, increasing accuracy and reducing system reaction time. Integration with reconnaissance systems such as drones allows for real-time fire adjustments.
In the future, the emergence of fully autonomous systems is expected, where the role of a person will be reduced to making a decision to hit a target. Robotic platforms will be able to take up firing positions without risking the lives of the crew. Process automation will become a key trend.
Work is also underway to create projectiles with programmable detonation, which can explode at a given height above the target, which is especially effective against manpower in trenches or behind cover. This makes Gorynych a relevant weapon for many decades to come.
The modern Gorynych is a high-precision complex integrated into a single reconnaissance and control network, and not just a multiple rocket launcher.
Is it possible to hear “Gorynych” before the strike?
The sound of a jet engine accelerates faster than sound, so the characteristic howl is often heard as the projectiles approach the target. You can hear the launch from a great distance, but there is practically no time to react.
How does Gorynych differ from conventional artillery?
The main difference is in the salvo and area of destruction. Barrel artillery hits more accurately and further at one point, and the MLRS covers a large area in a short time, creating a continuous destruction zone.
Is this term used in official documents?
No, “Gorynych” is exclusively soldier and journalistic jargon. In official documents, orders and technical documentation, full names are used, such as BM-21, BM-27 or BM-30.